The Meteor Explainer

What is a Bolide? Neil deGrasse Tyson adds some more context to an explanation of meteor showers he gave two years ago. In this video, you'll learn the difference between a Meteor, a Meteorite and a Bolide.

Did you know Neil had his own Meteorite fragment? Well, of course he does. Watch him show it off while talking about the Chicxulub impact that killed off the dinosaurs. He'll also tell you the best time of night to watch a meteor shower.

Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction
0:21 - Fireballs & Meteors
1:14 - Meteorites
2:54 - Impacts
4:19 - Chicxulub Impact
4:49 - Atmospheric Impacts
6:20 - Bolides
7:02 - Meteor Showers
11:11 - Outro

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About StarTalk:
Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up!

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[StarTalk]

How might the physical and chemical properties of a bolide affect our understanding of the early solar system compared to those of smaller meteorites? What can these differences reveal about the formation and evolution of planetary bodies?

Share your insights and theories below! 🚀🔍

[Klepske]

It's just Nice that Chuck keeps inviting Neil to his podcast. 😂

[goatflieg]

So glad Neil and Chuck are still doing this. Hope they keep it going for a long time.

[isaiahwade]

If it's in the void, it's an asteroid or meteoroid.
If it continues to soar, it's a meteor.
If it's no longer in flight, it's a meteorite.

[Darth]

@3:53 I love the glass breaking noise whenever he threw the magnet lmao

[zazoreal]

Chuck finding a loophole was brilliant.

[Dunning.Kruger]

I feel like StarTalk should create a video that breaks down the basics of logic, reason, and critical thinking—something accessible for everyone, especially in today’s world. It's more needed than ever, particularly in the U.S.

[Currawong]

"Why is this breeze peeling off my skin?!?" 🤣

[rachel_rexxx]

I love when Chuck has the confidence to deliver his quips without forcing a laugh to go along with it!

[GuildOfTheBlackCrow]

'If it's in flight, it ain't a meteorite' I am literally going to remember this forever with Chuck's voice in my head.

[lytaylor]

That crashing sound effect when Neil threw the tiny magnet out of frame 🤣🤣

[liggerstuxin]

“ if it’s not in flight, it’s a meteorite” that’s actually really good

[AndrewPolich]

Love the 10-15 minute format! Keep that up team

[FishareFriendsNotFood]

How heavy meteorites are always fill me with childlike wonder

[calebgordon]

"Why is this breeze peeling off my skin" I lost it 😂

[ROBLOXTHANOS]

Keep educating this frenzied and confused world, Neil.

Piers Morgan recently stated that you are the most famous scientist on the planet, and I agree with that claim.

[charaelias]

"If it's in flight, it's not a meteorite!" will now forever live in my brain along with the song lyrics to every song I've ever listened to more than once. Thanks, Chuck!

[Crunchr]

1:34 And if they soar, it's a meteor.

[shadytreez]

Its my Birthday this weekend and I am dragging hubby outside at midnight. I have seen two bolide (sp?)and hope to catch one this weekend. Thank you for the reminder of the yearly meteor shower. It is a great B-day gift.

[scottlarson]

Can't express how much I enjoy this podcast, I learn while laughing. THANK YOU